Manchester City are leading the race to sign RB Leipzig attacking midfielder Dani Olmo, according to Bild.
The German tabloid claim that the Cityzens do have an “advantage” over other teams who are competing for the Spanish international’s signature.
After signing Josko Gvardiol last year, the Premier League champions have “very good” relations with Leipzig, which will help facilitate further transfers in future.
However, it should be noted that the Bundesliga side will have very little say on where Olmo goes at the end of the season.
A €60m (£51m) release clause becomes active in the 25-year-old’s contract this summer, and any team can choose to trigger it before the next transfer window closes.
Who are the other clubs battling to sign Olmo?
Bild report that Tottenham have kept their eye on the Spaniard in recent months, while both Chelsea and Manchester United are also said to be interested in the player.
However, it is believed that the latter two clubs are unlikely to be attractive destinations for Olmo as they are not deemed stable teams who are ready to challenge for trophies straight away.
Why are City keen to sign another playmaker?
There is uncertainty over the long-term futures of both Bernardo Silva and Kevin De Bruyne. While Silva did sign a new contract with the Manchester club last year, it reportedly included a buyout clause worth just £50m.
It means it is possible that the Portuguese international will move teams at the end of the season, with Barcelona said to be considering an approach.
De Bruyne’s situation is slightly different. The Belgian will have twelve months remaining on his current deal in June and reports have linked him with clubs in Saudi Arabia and the United States.
If one or both players leave the Etihad Stadium this summer then recruiting someone like Olmo does make a lot more sense.